How Do Measured Building Surveys Work?
posted 15th July 2024
Have you been advised that you need a measured building survey? Maybe you are wondering what these surveys are. Measured building surveys involve taking accurate measurements of buildings, structures, and lands. The aim is to provide accurate data that can be used before and during the build project. It requires experience, knowledge, and the use of specialist tools from the original tape measure through to 3D laser scanners.
This is a very comprehensive survey that relates to internal and external elements of a site. They are used for everything, right down to detailed floor plans. Surveys are carried out using the guidance of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), providing rules for carrying out measured building surveys for domestic properties, commercial buildings, land, and utilities.
What Does a Measured Building Survey Entail?
It is important to bear in mind that every project is unique and we work with our clients to determine the level of detail they need before conducting a measured building survey. This includes the scale required, accuracy tolerances, level of detail, delivery times, and cost.
The accurate data collected during the survey is used as a foundation for new builds, extensions, refurbishments, and more. It can be used for space planning and safety, forming the design plans. Using modern and cutting edge technology the measured building surveys provide accurate and precise measurements of any project.
Measured building surveys are carried out before the architectural drawings, in fact, they help architects design the property, based on accurate measurements, along with important information, such as existing structures or other objects that may interfere with the design. Inaccurate data can result in issues including an increase in costs and delays in your build, which is why these surveys are imperative no matter the scale of the build.
How Are Measured Building Surveys Done?
Measured building surveys are carried out by experienced and knowledgeable surveyors that use cutting edge technology to achieve the highest level of accuracy. All preparations are made before arriving on site, using the information available including Google Maps and other mapping tools. This ensures the surveyor has a good understanding of the land or property before arriving.
Modern lasers provide fast and accurate solutions, when compared to traditional measuring techniques. Some surveyors will use laser tape measures that are fast with high precision, while most use 3D laser scanners, enabling the surveyor to capture thousands of measurements per second.
Topographical Surveys
Topographical surveys are often required before a new build commences. The data provided can be used by architects to design a building or home, taking obstacles and other structures into consideration. Topographical surveys provide information on levels and land gradients, identifying contours, existing features, and more. It includes everything from trees and buildings to manholes, utility poles, and retaining walls. It provides a visualisation of the land to be developed, ensuring the designs can be completed with confidence.
Building Surveys
Building surveys are completed when you intend to exited, alter, or refurbish your property, or you need to replicate the existing detail. Accurate plans on architectural and structural aspects will be required, ensuring you meet building regulations.
Building surveys include internal floor plans, cross sections, elevations and street scene elevations. With accurate measured building surveys you have all the details you nee3d to ensure your project goes ahead seamlessly.
Conclusion
Measured building surveys are an essential part of any successful construction project, whether you are building a new home, new shopping complex, extending your existing home, or refurbishing a listed building. It provides accurate measurements, based on your needs, ensuring your build project goes ahead as planned, saving you money and time caused by inaccurate measurements and unexpected obstacles on the land.